Hydro jetting is a powerful way to remove tree roots from your sewer pipes. This method uses strong water jets to cut through and remove roots, along with any grease and debris clogging your pipes. It’s a clean and non-invasive approach—meaning it won’t mess up your yard because there’s no digging involved.

Plus, it’s safe for almost all types of pipes and is eco-friendly since it only uses water. Hydro jetting solves the immediate problem and helps keep your pipes clear longer, saving you money on future repairs.

Tree roots can cause many problems when they get into sewer lines. They create blockages and can even break the pipes. This can lead to slow drains, sewage backup, and expensive repair bills. Finding a good solution to clear these roots effectively is important for homeowners.

In this guide, we’ll explore how hydro jetting works and why it’s a great choice for clearing tree roots from your sewer lines. If you’re dealing with stubborn tree roots in your plumbing, stick with us to find out if hydro jetting is the right solution for you.

You may also call us at R.S. Andrews at (470) 264-8128 for hydro jetting services in Atlanta, Georgia. Our experienced team can help you clear those roots and keep your plumbing running smoothly.

tree with long roots

Will Hydro Jetting Clear Tree Roots?

Hydro jetting is a highly effective method for clearing tree roots and restoring your plumbing system to optimal condition. This technique uses high-pressure water jets to break through tough root masses, flush out debris, and clean the pipe walls thoroughly.

The following are some key benefits of hydro jetting:

Powerful and Thorough Cleaning

Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water jets to cut through even the toughest tree roots. The intense water pressure thoroughly cleans the entire pipe, removing not only roots but also grease, sludge, and debris.

Unlike traditional snaking methods that may only punch a hole through the root mass, hydro jetting scours the pipe walls clean and ensures no residue is left behind.

Prevents Future Clogs

By scouring the pipe walls clean, hydro jetting removes small root fibers and other buildup that could lead to future clogs. This deep cleaning reduces the likelihood of future root intrusion and helps maintain smooth water flow, keeping your pipes clear for longer. The approach can save homeowners from frequent plumbing emergencies and costly repairs.

Non-Invasive Solution

Unlike traditional pipe replacement, hydro jetting is a non-invasive solution that doesn’t require digging up your yard. The equipment is inserted through an existing access point, minimizing disruption to your property. This trenchless approach means less mess and hassle, and a quicker resolution to your plumbing problems.

Safe for Pipes

Hydro jetting is safe for most types of pipes, including PVC, cast iron, and clay. The high-pressure water cleans effectively without causing damage. Skilled professionals adjust the water pressure to match the specific pipe material. This ensures that no harm comes to the existing infrastructure while still delivering powerful cleaning.

Environmentally Friendly

Hydro jetting relies only on water, meaning no harsh chemicals are used that could potentially harm the environment or your pipes. It also prevents groundwater contamination by thoroughly clearing the roots. This then minimizes the chances of sewage leaks that can damage soil and vegetation.

Effects of Tree Roots on Sewer Pipes

Tree roots naturally seek moisture and nutrients, making underground sewer pipes an ideal target. When tree roots invade sewer pipes, they can cause significant damage and disruptions to your plumbing system, such as the following:

Blockages:
Tree roots can quickly grow and tangle inside sewer pipes, creating dense blockages that prevent wastewater from flowing properly. This leads to slow drains, backups, and frequent clogs.
Pipe Cracks and Breaks:
As tree roots expand and grow thicker, they can crack and even break the pipes, causing leaks that may result in sewage spilling into your yard.
Collapsed Pipes:
If left untreated, root infiltration can weaken and collapse the entire sewer pipe, leading to severe plumbing issues that require costly repairs.
Increased Maintenance Costs:
Frequent clogs and backups due to tree roots require regular snaking or chemical treatments. Over time, this increases maintenance costs and can damage the pipes further.
Sewage Leaks and Contamination:
Broken or cracked sewer pipes can leak sewage into the surrounding soil. This can contaminate groundwater and pose health risks to your family and the environment.
Foundation Damage:
Leaking sewage from broken pipes can saturate the soil, potentially causing foundation shifts and damage to your home.

Signs of Tree Roots in Sewer Pipes

As mentioned, tree roots can infiltrate sewer pipes, causing blockages and damage that disrupt your plumbing system. Below are some common signs that tree roots may be causing trouble in your sewer lines:

Slow Draining or Backed-Up Drains:
If water drains slowly from sinks, showers, or tubs or if multiple drains back up simultaneously, it could indicate a blockage in the sewer line due to tree roots.
Gurgling Noises:
When using water fixtures, strange gurgling sounds from your drains or toilet suggest that air is trapped in the pipes, potentially due to root blockage.
Frequent Clogs:
Even after snaking or using drain cleaners, repeated clogs in your plumbing system may point to tree roots obstructing the sewer line.
Foul Odors:
Persistent, unpleasant smells from your drains or around your yard could indicate sewage backup caused by tree root infiltration.
Soggy or Indented Patches in the Yard:
Tree roots can cause leaks in sewer pipes, leading to soggy, mushy, or indented areas in your yard due to escaping wastewater.
Increased Insect or Rodent Activity:
A blocked or damaged sewer line can attract pests like rodents and insects. This may increase their activity around your home.

Is Hydro Jetting Right for Me?

Hydro jetting is an excellent solution for many plumbing problems, but it may not be right for everyone. Below are some factors to consider when deciding if hydro jetting is suitable for your plumbing system:

Severity of Blockages: Hydro jetting is ideal for severe clogs caused by tree roots, grease buildup, and sludge that traditional methods like snaking can’t effectively clear. If your plumbing system has frequent backups or stubborn clogs, hydro jetting can provide thorough cleaning.
Pipe Material and Condition: While hydro jetting is safe for most pipes, it’s important to consider the age and material of your plumbing system. Older pipes made of clay, brittle cast iron, or heavily damaged pipes may require a less intense cleaning method to prevent further damage.
Preventative Maintenance: If you’re looking for a proactive approach to maintaining your plumbing system, hydro jetting is an excellent option. It removes buildup before it hardens or causes blockages.
Commercial vs. Residential Use: Hydro jetting is widely used in commercial settings like restaurants, where grease buildup is a common issue. However, it’s also suitable for residential use, particularly in older homes with tree root intrusion or frequent clogs.
Budget Considerations: While hydro jetting may seem more expensive initially, its long-term benefits can save you money by reducing emergency repairs. Consider it a worthwhile investment for maintaining your plumbing system’s health.

With the right approach, hydro jetting can help restore optimal water flow and keep your plumbing system functioning smoothly for years to come.